Written by showrunner Chris Chibnall and directed by Wayne Yip, the hour-long episode will see the Doctor, Ryan, Yaz and Graham arrive home – only to come across a new alien threat to planet Earth.

"We're thrilled to be starting the New Year with a bang on BBC One, as Jodie Whittaker's Doctor and friends face a terrifying alien threat in an action-packed, hour-long special adventure for all the family," Chibnall said.

BBC's director of content Charlotte Moore added: "We're delighted the Doctor and her companions will be welcoming BBC One audiences into 2019 with this exciting new episode. The Doctor's fans are in for a special treat on the first day of the new year."

Doctor Who's New Year's special will air on January 1 on BBC One. The Doctor Who series 11 finale 'The Battle of Ranskoor Av Kolos' airs this Sunday, December 9 at 6.25pm.